Ring-Tail 
22 1 
sharp-pointed, the posterior much larger, with a well-developed 
inner cusp. The molars are of good size. 
Distribution. — Elliot gives the distribution of this species as 
California through Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. It is also 
found in southwestern Colorado, having been taken in Mesa County, 
FIG. 70. RING-TAIL, BassaHscus astutus 
Skull showing dentition x i| 
in western Montrose and San Miguel counties. It is reported from 
Delta, from Durango, and from Montezuma County. It does not 
seem to be very common, but in the Paradox Valley, in western 
Montrose County, it was well known, and one has been taken near 
Coventry, Montrose County, 6,800 feet. 
Habits. — The Ring-tail is an inhabitant of rocky places by 
choice, preferring to live among the stones and cliffs in the 
canons and similar places. They are nocturnal and carniv- 
orous in their diet, living on the various small rodents found 
in such places. The young are about four in a litter, and are 
born in late spring and early summer. They are said 
to be easily tamed and to make gentle and interesting pets. 
